Species
The Osprian species is one that comes in many forms as no Osprian is truly the same due to their wildly diverging feathers. This is particularly embodied by their four species offshoots known as races. These evolved over the course of the species’ interstellar history and have since become pillars of Osprian society. In a realm where species-wide diversity is cherished, all offshoots remain equal and can freely reproduce with each other.
Osprians are a tall bipedal dioecious sapient avian species. The species exhibits a slight sexually dimorphism with males having longer crest plumes on top of their head. Naturally, the Osprians live up to 90 years, but thanks to widespread genetic prolongevity therapy, Osprian nowadays live up to 180 years. Although theoretically possible to extend it even further, pioneers in genetic sciences stumbled across psychological barriers as recipients of prolongevity exceeding 220 years grew increasingly mad. As such, the Timarchy has outlawed further genetic prolongevity therapy exceeding the current norms.
Due to strong bones and stolid feathers, the Osprians had little trouble to acclimatise to all corners of their homeworld and have proven remarkably versatile in their colonisation efforts, hunting on all kinds of prey with their heightened vision and depth perception. Osprian diet continues to be largely carnivorous, but the species can digest plants which are frequently used as flavour enhancers in its cuisine.
When it comes to marriage, the species is staunchly monogamous with a core family within the larger clan structure. They are noted to be remarkably devoted to their partners and rarely do they divorce or remarry upon the death of a partner. This devout loyalty is not typically seen in other sapient species and, as a result, it is speculated that Osprians form a deeper emotional connection than other species.
Cardinal genetic line
Average Height: 2.3 m
Eye Colours: Yellow, grey, green, blue, purple, brown
Feather Colours: Red, brown, blue, white, grey, green, yellow, orange
The cardinal genetic line is the progenitor line from which all other Osprian offshoots have diverged. It also is the most dominant genetic strand within the Timarchy with over 40% of its population being categorised as such. This number used to be higher in older eras, but it has seen a steady decline in percentage over the Skavirian Dynasty’s reign.
Skelarian offshoots
Average Height: 2.6 m
Eye Colours: Yellow, red, blue, brown
Feather Colours: Yellow, red, blue, grey, pink, orange
Characteristics: Long crest plumes and short beak
The second largest genetic group are the Skelarian, consisting of roughly 25% of the Timarchy’s population. This is also the first offshoot that manifested as the Osprians colonised many flat worlds. The Skelarians have adapted to their native savanna landscape and are the fastest runners of any Osprian race. They are also notably taller, making them among the tallest natural biological species in the Sector.
Korrathians offshoots
Average Height: 1.9 m
Eye Colours: Purple, blue, yellow
Feather Colours: Yellow, grey, brown, orange, green
Characteristics: Interlocking beak, round crest plumes and broader stature
The Korrathian offshoot finds its roots in elevated mountainous terrains. They physiognomy is slightly different to that of other Osprian races as the don’t need as much oxygen to survive. Thus, they can be found not only among the high ridges of colonies, but also oxygen-poor planets. Regardless of this biological advantage, they make up about 15% Osprians.
Kaeryxians offshoots
Average Height: 1.7 m
Eye Colours: Blue, brown, yellow, grey, green
Feather Colours: Blue, grey, red, green, yellow, orange
Characteristics: Sharp beak, elongated cheek feathers and sharp crest plumes
The smallest of the Osprian offshoots is the Kaeryxian one. Around 12.5% of the Osprians are identified as Kaeryxian and are nearly all found on worlds with a higher gravity. Their sturdier build is a direct result of their adaptation to such worlds on which they now proudly flourish. Additionally, this has also made them among the most renowned warrior clans, dominating the ranks of shock troops and special forces across the Timarchy’s military.
Nyxarians offshoots
Average Height: 2.1 m
Eye Colours: Yellow, red, purple, grey, green.
Feather Colours: Purple, red, orange, blue
Characteristics: Vibrant feathers, crest plumes with eyespots (males) and narrow beak
The Nyxarian offshoot is the youngest genetic strand and also the rarest. Composing an estimate of 7.5% of the population, they are largely synonymous with the cultural elite of the Timarchy. They first appeared in the Nyxar star system after which they’re named. Many sages, performers and artists belong to this genetic strand. They are also renowned for their perceived beauty, largely stemming from their elongated plumes with catching eyespots which only males of the offshoot exhibit.